The 50-Year Evolution of the Ministry of Association

Resized

In 1974, the “experiment” began. Hoping to explore new ways of intentionally being together, sisters invited interested individuals outside of the vowed life into relationships for the purpose of learning about and experiencing CSJ spirituality and mission, together, in friendship. I always like to say, “They loved us into existence.” This beautiful relationship has evolved into something that is much, much more. Today, it is a far-reaching ministry of mutuality, in which associates and sisters serve God, the dear neighbor and one another.

Rather than being a single ministry or committee, such as the St. Joseph Educational Ministries (SJEM) or Health and Wholeness, association is an umbrella ministry that initiates and sustains members in living the charism alongside sisters. Members can be found serving throughout the province within a variety of ministries. We do this prayerfully, joyfully, gently.

  • Associates serve in nearly all the ministries that the sisters began and have added their own offerings to the cadre of ministries of the CSJ family.
  • Associates serve on boards and committees of CSJ ministries and institutions that were previously filled exclusively by sister members
  • Associates have a leadership board and regional coordinators and teams who have taken on the responsibility for planning opportunities around our common values of community, spirituality and justice that are always offered for the benefit of associates and sisters.
  • Associates are committed to living out our common charism of loving unity and the mission of loving God and the dear neighbor without distinction, continuing to attract new members to the CSJ family.

On Sept. 7, we gathered in the beautiful Holy Family Chapel at the Carondelet Motherhouse for our 50th anniversary event, Celebrating 50 Years of Association in Gratitude and Hope. We expressed gratitude for the many remarkable sisters and associates who began, sustained and grew association. Yes, we stand on the shoulders of many holy people, who believed in the possibilities of this relationship of loving unity.

We also looked forward in hope. Sister John Marie Riley loved to say, “If it is of God, it will go!” We pray, that if it is of God, it will keep going! There was so much love poured in from those gathered in the chapel and those joining us via livestream. Thank you for your prayerful support. Together, we are more!

Additional Resources

Please enjoy these resources to continue the celebration: